Special Assistant to the Deputy Executive Secretary, Administrative Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established to promote economic and social development in African countries. ECA's mission is to deliver ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, informed by the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 206

• The organization operates with a focus on advancing its position as a premier knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic and structural policy options, designing innovative financing models, contributing to regional challenges, and advocating Africa's position at the global level. ECA has a significant presence in various African countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing the continent's unique challenges.

Job Overview:
The Special Assistant to the Deputy Executive Secretary, Administrative Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the Deputy Executive Secretary in the Office of Programme Support at the Economic Commission for Africa. This position involves conducting and coordinating the day-to-day work of the Deputy Executive Secretary, providing liaison services with various clients, and preparing substantive documents to support the Deputy Executive Secretary's work. The incumbent will also be responsible for managing follow-up actions, overseeing human resource activities, and ensuring the effective implementation of the work programme and budget. The role requires strong organizational skills, the ability to work under pressure, and a commitment to the principles of the United Nations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Special Assistant include: conducting and coordinating the daily work of the Deputy Executive Secretary; preparing aide memoirs, memoranda, and other substantive documents; responding to substantive correspondences; arranging audiences and protocol arrangements; contributing to the preparation and review of the work programme and budget; accompanying the Deputy Executive Secretary to meetings and conferences; monitoring and managing follow-up actions; providing guidance and leadership to junior staff; coordinating human resource activities; overseeing budget and finance matters; managing general administration tasks; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of administrative, budgetary, financial, and human resources policies and procedures. They should demonstrate the ability to apply United Nations administrative rules and regulations effectively, possess conceptual analytical and evaluative skills, and show pride in their work. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to listen and respond appropriately. They should also exhibit accountability, planning, and organizational skills, with a focus on developing clear goals and priorities.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business or public administration, finance, accounting, law, or a related area is required. A first-level university degree combined with two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in administration, finance, accounting, human resources management, or related fields is required. Experience in a front office setting and supporting a Senior Official is essential, along with experience in supporting intergovernmental processes. Experience in international-level coordination within the United Nations system or other international or regional organizations is desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, while knowledge of French is desirable. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until the current position holder returns. The United Nations Secretariat is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The selection process may be limited to internal candidates or those who have been recruited through a competitive examination. The position is subject to the funding source, and candidates from under-represented Member States are strongly encouraged to apply. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.